Heraklion — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Heraklion (Crete, Greece). It includes the current water temperature, daily data for the last month presented in a simple chart, and a 7-day forecast. The page also compares today’s value with typical averages for this period, shows usual monthly ranges during the year, and lists nearby beaches with short descriptions. Local weather for the next few days and general details about Heraklion help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Heraklion in the Sea of Crete today is 79°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 79°F (26°C) to 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays.
It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperature in Heraklion rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Heraklion will be 80°F in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 31 | 80°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 1 | 79°F | 78°F | |
| AUG 2 | 79°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 3 | 79°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 4 | 79°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 5 | 79°F | 80°F | |
| AUG 6 | 79°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 7 | 79°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 8 | 79°F | 79°F | 79°F |
| AUG 9 | 80°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 10 | 80°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 11 | 80°F | 79°F | |
| AUG 12 | 79°F | 80°F | |
| AUG 13 | 80°F | 80°F | |
| AUG 14 | 80°F | 80°F | |
| AUG 15 | 79°F | 80°F |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for this location is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.
Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month
Monthly Water Temp Ranges
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Heraklion, the largest city on the island of Crete, sits on the island’s northern shore and benefits from a typical Mediterranean climate that keeps the sea relatively mild year-round. Sea surface temperatures around Heraklion generally range from about 16–18 °C in the coldest months (December–February), rise to roughly 17–20 °C in spring (March–May), peak in summer at approximately 24–26 °C (June–August) with the warmest waters often in July and August, and then ease back to around 21–24 °C during autumn (September–November). Local conditions such as wind, currents and shallow bays can cause short-term variations, so day-to-day temperatures may differ slightly from monthly averages.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 59°F | 62°F | 66°F |
| February | 59°F | 61°F | 64°F |
| March | 59°F | 61°F | 64°F |
| April | 59°F | 62°F | 66°F |
| May | 61°F | 67°F | 72°F |
| June | 66°F | 73°F | 79°F |
| July | 73°F | 78°F | 82°F |
| August | 75°F | 79°F | 82°F |
| September | 73°F | 78°F | 82°F |
| October | 66°F | 74°F | 79°F |
| November | 64°F | 71°F | 75°F |
| December | 61°F | 66°F | 72°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Heraklion: Weather Forecast
August 9
August 10
August 11
August 12
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Heraklion Port
Xeropotamos Beach
Ammoudara Beach
Ammoudara 4
Karteros Beach
Xenia
Amnisos
Tobruk
Ellinoperamata
Swimming Conditions
These temperature patterns shape swimming and beach-holiday options for visitors. The summer months offer comfortable conditions for long swims, snorkeling and non-motorized water sports without thermal protection, while late spring and early autumn still provide pleasant swimming for most people, though more cautious swimmers may find water below about 22 °C brisk. In winter swimming is possible but chilly for casual bathers; some locals and dedicated cold-water swimmers continue year-round. Heraklion’s coastline combines sandy and pebbly beaches, sheltered bays, organized beaches with amenities and lively urban shorelines, plus nearby rocky spots for snorkeling and diving. Many accommodations and beach clubs also provide pools, making it easy to tailor a beach holiday to preferred comfort levels regardless of the season.